The beneficial power of herbs in winter

Winter in the Alps is a time of retreat, silence and regeneration. Our Celtic ancestors believed that the new life of the coming springtime originated in the time of deepest darkness, which is why they celebrated Samhain* as the beginning of a time when they would examine and reflect on the past, in order to approach the new with an open, impartial mind following a process of spiritual cleansing.

Winter draws its purifying power from the cold. The element that marks this season is the pure, clear water from the springs up on the Plose. Its ability to change form offers protection to people and nature alike: snow and ice protect plants from freezing, while a warming bath or a hot drink made from herbs will help strengthen the immune system.

The Celts developed a wide knowledge of healing techniques in the forests of central Europe: even in those days, wild herbs – their warming, harmonising or cleansing powers released in the form of incense or tea – were among the most important factors accompanying this time of renewal.

The FORESTIS Spa welcomes its guests at reception with little tealights that give off the scent of dried herbs. Appropriate blends of mountain herbs, organically grown by the experts at the nearby Schmiedthof, are carefully selected according to season and mood.

Located at an altitude of 1,400 metres above sea level, the steep slopes of this mountain farm enjoy intense sunshine, clear mountain air and a mild, balanced climate. Here, some 80 different types of herbs and spices mature – healthy, vigorous and intensely scented. The Frener family have been hand-cultivating their mountain herbs according to strict ecological principles since 1994: once a week, the FORESTIS organises a visit to the herb experts Laurenz and Giada, allowing guests to get to know where and how the herbs are produced. Depending on the season, visits can focus on a tour of the farm, tea tastings, the mixing of herbal salts, as well as traditional knowledge such as the influence of the moon and planets on the growth and harvesting of herbs.

The cookery courses at the FORESTIS also make good use of the aromatic herbs from the Schmiedthof.

Please contact the FORESTIS team for further information or to register for the three-hour herb excursion.

* The Celtic moon festival that heralded the new year upon the eleventh black (i.e. new) moon of the year between the end of October and the beginning of November.